Dred scott v sandford 1857 worksheet answers – The Dred Scott v. Sandford 1857 worksheet answers provide a comprehensive overview of the landmark Supreme Court case that significantly shaped American history. This case, involving an enslaved man named Dred Scott, raised fundamental questions about citizenship, slavery, and the role of the federal government in regulating these issues.
The worksheet delves into the intricate legal arguments presented by both sides, the historical context surrounding the case, and the far-reaching impact of the Supreme Court’s ruling. By examining the worksheet answers, readers gain a deeper understanding of this pivotal case and its profound implications for the nation.
Dred Scott’s Background
Dred Scott was born into slavery in Southampton County, Virginia, in 1799. His enslavement was the result of his mother’s status as a slave. In 1830, Scott was sold to John Emerson, a U.S. Army surgeon, and taken to the free state of Illinois and the Wisconsin Territory, where slavery was prohibited by the Missouri Compromise of 1820. After Emerson’s death in 1843, Scott and his family returned to Missouri, where he was enslaved by Emerson’s widow, Irene Emerson.
The Legal Case
In 1846, Scott filed suit for his freedom in the federal court in Missouri. He argued that his residence in free territories made him a free man. The case was eventually appealed to the Supreme Court, where it was argued in 1856 and 1857.
The legal arguments presented by Scott’s attorneys focused on the Missouri Compromise, which prohibited slavery in the territories north of the 36°30′ parallel. They argued that Scott’s residence in Illinois and the Wisconsin Territory had made him a free man, even though he had since been returned to Missouri.
The attorneys representing the defendants argued that the Missouri Compromise was unconstitutional and that Scott was not a citizen of the United States. They also argued that Scott’s status as a slave was determined by the laws of Missouri, where he was currently enslaved.
The Supreme Court Ruling
On March 6, 1857, the Supreme Court ruled against Scott in a 7-2 decision. The Court held that Scott was not a citizen of the United States and therefore could not sue in federal court. The Court also ruled that the Missouri Compromise was unconstitutional, meaning that slavery was legal in all U.S.
territories.
The Court’s decision was based on the legal doctrine of “judicial review,” which gives the Supreme Court the power to declare laws unconstitutional. The Court held that the Missouri Compromise violated the Fifth Amendment’s Due Process Clause, which protects property rights, including the right to own slaves.
Impact of the Ruling: Dred Scott V Sandford 1857 Worksheet Answers
The Supreme Court’s ruling in Dred Scott v. Sandford had a profound impact on the United States. The decision deepened the divisions between the North and the South and contributed to the outbreak of the Civil War in 1861.
The ruling also had a long-term impact on American law and society. The decision was used to justify the continuation of slavery in the United States and to deny citizenship to African Americans.
Historical Significance
Dred Scott v. Sandford is one of the most important cases in American history. The case helped to shape the development of American law and society, and its legacy continues to be debated today.
The case is a reminder of the struggle for racial equality in the United States. It is also a reminder of the power of the Supreme Court to shape American law and society.
FAQ Resource
What was the central issue in Dred Scott v. Sandford?
The case centered on the question of whether Dred Scott, an enslaved man, was a citizen of the United States and whether he could sue in federal court.
What was the Supreme Court’s ruling in the case?
The Court ruled that Scott was not a citizen and therefore could not sue in federal court. The Court also ruled that the Missouri Compromise, which prohibited slavery in certain territories, was unconstitutional.
What was the impact of the Dred Scott decision?
The decision exacerbated tensions between the North and the South and contributed to the outbreak of the Civil War.
